Here you will find some tips and information to help you wherever you are on your OU student journey.
Jump to different sections with these links:
Got any questions for us about what’s happening during Freshers? Read our helpful Frequently Asked Questions or you can email oustudents-community@open.ac.uk and the team will be happy to answer any queries you have.
The OU Students Association has been supporting and empowering OU students since 1972. Our mission is to make a positive difference to all OU students and this is the underlying principle of everything we do.
An association is a lot like a student union - we aim to help you make the most of your time studying. Depending on what you’re interested in, we can help you get in touch with other students, get involved, find information and news, get help, attend events and access services to support your learning.
The Association is run by students, for students, and supported by a staff team. You can find out about our fantastic elected student leadership team.
When you enrol on an Open University (OU) course, you automatically become a member of the Association. So welcome to the community!
Find out more about the Association
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The Hoot is our online magazine for OU Students. You can read news, interviews and features, take part in polls and quizzes, and even submit your own content. Check out The Hoot guidelines to see how you can get involved.
On The Hoot, we already have lots of articles that may be useful to you. Have a search around, or make a start with one of the links below.
Being an OU Students: Tips and Tricks
Seasoned students give their TMA top tips
Essay and Exam Tips
Good Academic Practices and Study Skills
10 fun classical playlists to listen to while studying!
Managing our worries in worrying times
Understanding yourself with self coaching
From exams to starting your module, watch our helpful videos below for advice and tips for all OU students! Why not check out our YouTube channel for more too?
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Even outside of Freshers, we have a brilliant student community ready to welcome you. Student volunteers run regular online events, so if you want a break from studying or just to see a friendly face, why not check out what’s on this week?
We have a range of Clubs and Societies that provide a space for OU students to meet others with similar interests. There is lots of choice – from academic societies to clubs based on common interests.
Join our clubs and societies.
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Studying can be hard and sometimes you need that extra bit of support to help you on your way.
To ensure you get the correct support, we have listed a variety of resources for you to browse through on our support and advice page.
These include Peer Support, study skills support from other OU Students; Shout, a listening ear for when you are feeling distressed and just need someone to talk to if you are feeling alone; and The Open University Students Educational Trust (Students Charity) in case you require financial support and all other options have been exhausted.
Our ‘Wellbeing’ section also features tips on how to overcome stress and resources on maintaining a positive mental wellbeing.
We also have support groups ready to welcome you to their community – Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic Students Group, Disabled Students Group, and OU Pride (for LGBTQI+ students).
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Keep up to date on a daily basis by following our social media accounts. You can find us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
You might also want to Sign up for news.
The Hoot, our magazine for OU students, is also on Facebook and Twitter.
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